In the upcoming Abu Dhabi race, should Max Verstappen secure his fifth world drivers championship, Lewis Hamilton may find some ironic satisfaction. Verstappen’s last-minute title win in 2021, marking the start of his four consecutive victories, was marred by controversy due to a contentious safety car ruling by the race director Michael Masi. This decision allowed Verstappen to overtake Hamilton on the final lap, snatching the world title from the Brit in a record-breaking fashion.
The contentious nature of that day in Abu Dhabi still haunts Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s former boss at Mercedes, who recently expressed his frustration over the situation. An FIA investigation in 2022 concluded that Masi had erred in applying safety car regulations, citing it as a ‘human error.’ Despite the controversy, Verstappen’s dominance continued, positioning him as a strong contender for his fifth consecutive championship, with Lando Norris also in the running.
Verstappen’s potential fifth championship victory would solidify his status as one of the greatest drivers ever, placing him among the elite group alongside Hamilton, Schumacher, and Fangio. While his 2021 Red Bull was on par with Hamilton’s Mercedes, his 2022 and 2023 cars proved to be superior. Although facing challenges last season with the team’s internal issues and car performance fluctuations, Verstappen’s current position as a title contender against the odds showcases his resilience and skill.
With only the final race remaining, Verstappen trails Norris by a slim margin, keeping the championship battle intense. If Verstappen manages to win in Abu Dhabi and Norris falls short on the podium, he will clinch the title, achieving a remarkable feat given the McLaren’s superiority for much of the season. Verstappen’s impressive track record and determination to compete at the highest level have solidified his place as a top contender in the Formula One realm.
Looking ahead to the Qatar Grand Prix victory, Verstappen acknowledged the significance of his achievements, reflecting on his unexpected position in the championship battle. His confidence and performance have resonated throughout the season, showcasing his capabilities as a top-tier driver. While the events of Abu Dhabi 2021 remain a point of contention, Verstappen’s continued success and growing legacy in Formula One highlight his undeniable talent and potential for further greatness.